India name teenage batting sensation in T20I squad for overseas tours

India selectors pick 15-year-old batting prodigy for T20Is in Ireland, England, and Asian Games after his explosive IPL performances.

Sooryavanshi forces his way into squad India's head selector Ajit Agarkar confirmed the panel had no real alternative but to include Vaibhav Sooryavanshi in the T20I squad after the teenage batter dominated the last two IPL campaigns. His performances in the 2026 season were decisive, as he amassed 776 runs at a strike rate of 237.30 to single-handedly guide Rajasthan Royals into the playoffs, earning him a call-up for the upcoming T20I series in Ireland and England, as well as the men's cricket competition at the Asian Games. Agarkar admitted the selectors felt compelled to select him due to his standout displays. ## Young phenom earns praise from selectors Speaking about Sooryavanshi's rise, Agarkar remarked that the teenager had essentially "picked himself" with his performances. He highlighted how the youngster's consistent excellence had left the panel with little choice but to include him in the national team. Agarkar added that Sooryavanshi's batting had reached a level where further discussion was unnecessary. He also pointed out that the young batter's strong start to his IPL career the previous season further strengthened his case for selection. Agarkar described Sooryavanshi as a potential game-changer who could thrive under pressure in the high-stakes T20 format. ## Early milestones shape selector confidence Sooryavanshi made his mark as the youngest male centurion in T20 cricket at just 14 years old, blazing to a 38-ball 101 against Gujarat Titans in the IPL in 2025. His explosive approach in the latest edition, including his ability to target top bowlers like Jasprit Bumrah and Mitchell Starc, convinced the selectors of his readiness for the next level. Agarkar acknowledged the youngster's age and early career stage but stressed that his two consecutive strong IPL showings had been impossible to ignore. He also noted Sooryavanshi's impressive Under-19 performances, which, while competitive, pale in comparison to the demands of senior cricket. ## Selectors back youngster’s potential Agarkar emphasized the panel's optimism about Sooryavanshi's future, stating they hoped he would replicate his domestic form when given the chance to represent the country. He acknowledged that international cricket would present greater challenges but pointed to the youngster's promising temperament and skills. Agarkar also admitted the panel deliberated carefully due to the abundance of talent in Indian T20 cricket, yet Sooryavanshi's performances left them with no doubt about his inclusion. The selectors expressed significant hope for his ability to deliver at the highest level. ## Test prospects remain on hold for now Agarkar made it clear that discussions about Sooryavanshi's future in Test cricket were premature. He noted that the young batter had featured in just eight first-class matches, scoring 207 runs with a highest score of 93. Agarkar explained that Sooryavanshi's selection was based solely on his T20 dominance over the past two seasons. He stressed the importance of allowing the teenager to develop through domestic red-ball cricket before considering his advancement. Agarkar concluded that the selectors were focused on maximizing his contributions to the T20 team, with plans to progress step-by-step.